Gautam Adani Launches Vande Bharatam to Expand Indian Startup Access Beyond Major Cities
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, launched Vande Bharatam on June 25, 2026, to identify and support entrepreneurs across all 36 Indian States and Union Territories. The initiative aims to provide mentorship and investment opportunities to innovators in more than 800 districts, specifically targeting talent outside of India’s primary startup hubs.
The program, which opened for applications on June 24, seeks to bridge the gap between established metropolitan startup centers and the rest of the country. While India ranks among the world’s leading startup ecosystems, the Adani Group noted that more than 80 percent of startup founders currently emerge from only five cities. Vande Bharatam is designed to bring visibility, mentorship, and networks to aspiring innovators in small towns and rural communities.
Why is Vande Bharatam targeting innovators outside major cities?
The initiative aims to drive economic growth and solve local challenges as part of India’s goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047. By expanding entrepreneurship to various geographies, sectors, and languages, the program intends to create jobs and social impact through diverse talent.
“There is no shortage of talent in our nation, but opportunity has not always reached every corner of the country,” Mr. Adani said during the launch. He stated that the effort is intended to discover problem-solvers whose ideas deserve a larger platform. The initiative includes dedicated pathways to encourage participation from women entrepreneurs, tribal entrepreneurs, rural innovators, Divyang entrepreneurs, and community-based innovators.
How will the selection and mentorship process work?
Applications will undergo a structured evaluation based on innovation, scalability, impact, and entrepreneurial potential. According to the Adani Group, the following stages are planned:
- Regional Evaluation: Applications will be assessed through state and regional stages.
- Finalist Selection: Seventy-five finalists will be chosen to participate in an intensive program.
- Ahmedabad Immersive Programme: Finalists will be invited to Ahmedabad for mentorship, industry interactions, and engagement with business leaders and investors.
- Grand Finale: The program will culminate in a national Grand Finale scheduled around Independence Day.
Finalists may also receive prize money and category-based recognitions, though specific details regarding these awards will be announced at a later date. The program is also intended to serve as an ongoing engagement platform connecting participants with fellow innovators and strategic partners.
Who is eligible to apply for Vande Bharatam?
The initiative is open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Participants do not need to be part of a registered startup; they may apply with a concept, a prototype, an early-stage venture, or an established business. The program invites entries from several sectors, including:
- Technology and manufacturing
- Agriculture and sustainability
- Traditional crafts and community-led solutions
Acclaimed actor, television host, and entrepreneur Rajeev Khandelwal will serve as the Ambassador and Host to help champion the mission of amplifying entrepreneurial talent across India.
What are the next steps for interested applicants?
Interested parties can submit applications through the official website at vandebharatam.org. While the initial application phase is underway, the Adani Group has not yet released specific details regarding jury composition or the exact assessment criteria. Additional information regarding these selection stages is expected to be announced in due course.